REVIVAL OF THE FLAX TRADE.

Manawatu Herald, 5 September 1896, Page 3

REVIVAL OF THE FLAX TRADE.

TO THE EDITOR OF THE K.VNAWATU HBBALB. Sir,—As you no doubt are aware ah answer has been received from the Government with reference to the petition signed by those interested in the flax business and settlers generally. Now I think that the reason given by the Government for not Beeing their way clear, viz. —" On account of the large stocks held by the Home and American markets " is the very reason why we should know the reason why our fibre is not being used, for experts tell us that our N.Z. Fibre is the most suitable in the world for binder twine purposes, and for this reason we think the Government should assist the industry in the way they are helping other industries, such as meat, fruii, timber and butter by appointing experts. When in Wellington a few days ago, while in conversation with Mr Haggen, he stated it was his intention to come up to this district as he desired to discuss with the settlers the practicability of a canal to divert the river so as to secure better drainage for the low-lying country abutting upon it Mr Holmes is abo paying the district a visit, and it might be so arranged to bold a meeting in the Hall to enable these gentle* men to put their views before the public. As many of the petitioners wou'd like to hear what Mr Holmes has to say in support of sending an expert to Europe, I should think they would gladly join in placing this suggestion before the two gentlemen named. I should be glad it those who hold this opinion would intimate the same to me without loss of time, so that arrangements could be made to give effect to it. — I am, Arc, Thos. Westwood.